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Understanding the Spurling Test: A Key Tool at Physio360 for Cervical Radiculopathy Diagnosis.




INTRODUCTION;

If you’ve ever experienced neck pain that radiates down your arm, tingling fingers, or weakness in your upper limb, your physiotherapist may consider a Spurling Test as part of your evaluation. At Physio360, our skilled physiotherapists use this test to assess cervical nerve root compression — a common culprit behind neck and arm pain.

Let’s dive deeper into what the Spurling Test is, how it works, and why Physio360 is the best physiotherapy clinic in Chennai for accurate assessment and holistic treatment.


What Is the Spurling Test?

The Spurling Test, also known as Spurling’s Compression Test, is a provocative clinical test used to identify cervical radiculopathy — a condition where nerve roots in the neck are irritated or compressed, often due to:

  • Cervical disc herniation

  • Degenerative disc disease

  • Cervical spondylosis

  • Foraminal narrowing (stenosis)

This test helps reproduce a patient’s symptoms by applying a controlled mechanical force to the cervical spine.





How Is the Spurling Test Performed?

At Physio360, our expert physiotherapists follow a safe and step-by-step method for the Spurling Test:

  1. The patient is seated comfortably.

  2. The head is extended, laterally flexed (bent) toward the side of pain.

  3. A gentle downward compression is applied to the top of the head.

🔍 Positive Test:

If the test reproduces pain, tingling, or numbness in the same side of the neck, shoulder, or arm, it suggests cervical nerve root compression or radiculopathy.


Is the Spurling Test Safe?

Yes, when performed by trained professionals like the team at Physio360 Chennai, the test is both safe and effective. It is not recommended for individuals with:

  • Acute neck trauma

  • Cervical instability

  • Active infection or malignancy in the cervical spine

  • Severe osteoporosis

This is why a detailed physical examination and clinical history are essential before performing the Spurling Test — something we prioritise at Physio360.


Why Is the Spurling Test Important?

The Spurling Test helps differentiate between muscle-related neck pain and nerve-related symptoms, which is crucial for accurate treatment planning. A correct diagnosis ensures you get the right physiotherapy approach, such as:

  • Cervical traction

  • Neural mobilisation techniques

  • Posture correction exercises

  • Strengthening and mobility programs

  • Manual therapy for joint stiffness

At Physio360 Centre in Chennai, we combine such assessments with cutting-edge treatments to ensure fast and long-lasting recovery.


Spurling Test at Physio360: What to Expect

When you walk into Physio360, you're not just getting a basic check-up — you're receiving comprehensive care. Here's how we do it:

  1. One-on-one consultation

  2. Detailed neck and upper limb assessment

  3. Spurling Test and other neurological tests

  4. Postural and ergonomic advice tailored to your lifestyle

  5. Evidence-based physiotherapy treatment plan

Whether you're a software engineer sitting long hours, a homemaker dealing with household strain, or an athlete facing recurrent neck pain, Physio360 is your go-to physiotherapy clinic in Chennai for precise evaluation and effective care.





Real Case: Spurling Test Success at Physio360.

A 42-year-old woman came to Physio360 complaining of radiating neck pain and arm numbness after months of working from home without proper ergonomic support. A positive Spurling Test confirmed cervical radiculopathy. With manual therapy, postural correction, and a customised exercise routine, she experienced complete symptom relief within 3 weeks.


Tips to Avoid Cervical Nerve Root Compression.

  • Maintain good posture while sitting, driving, or sleeping

  • Avoid prolonged forward head posture

  • Stretch your neck and shoulders regularly

  • Strengthen your deep neck flexors

  • Use ergonomically designed chairs and desks

The Physio360 team will guide you with personalised lifestyle changes for long-term prevention.'


Why Choose Physio360 for Neck Pain in Chennai?

  • ✔️ Experienced physiotherapists trained in spinal assessments

  • ✔️ Advanced manual therapy techniques

  • ✔️ Patient-first, customised care

  • ✔️ Affordable and accessible physiotherapy in Chennai

  • ✔️ Proven success stories for cervical radiculopathy

If you’re suffering from neck and arm pain, don’t ignore the signs. A simple Spurling Test at Physio360 could be the first step toward recovery and relief.


Book Your Appointment Today!

Physio360 – The Best Physiotherapy Centre in ChennaiWe’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.


REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE :

1.What is the Best Way to Apply the Spurling Test for Cervical Radiculopathy?https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3830095/.


2.Validity of the Spurling test in the diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy: A systematic reviewhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/361033053_Validity_of_the_Spurling_test_in_the_diagnosis_of_cervical_radiculopathy_A_systematic_review.


 
 
 

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